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Ohio Caterers & Bartending Services
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Important Questions To Ask Your Vendors
Not sure what to ask your wedding vendors? These helpful FAQs are designed to guide Northeast Ohio couples through the wedding planning process so you can feel confident, informed, and prepared when choosing your vendor team. Use these questions as a guide to start conversations, but not every question will apply to every type of wedding vendor.
Are we your only client that day?
Some Northeast Ohio wedding vendors only take on one wedding per day so they can focus entirely on you, while others may handle multiple events with a larger team. It’s important to ask how your vendor structures their schedule and who will be working your wedding. Knowing this upfront helps you feel confident in your vendor team and ensures a smooth wedding planning experience.
Who will be working our wedding?
It’s important to know exactly who will be there on your wedding day. The person you’ve been communicating with isn’t always the one who will be on-site. Many Northeast Ohio wedding vendors have teams. Ask who your main day-of contact will be, their experience, and how your details will be handed off to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Does your company have insurance coverage?
Many Northeast Ohio wedding venues require vendors to carry liability insurance, so it’s a smart question to ask during your planning process. Professional wedding vendors should be able to confirm their coverage and provide a certificate of insurance if needed. This adds an extra layer of protection and peace of mind for your wedding day.
Can we get a contract in writing?
Yes, always. You should never pay a deposit without a written contract or proposal in place. Your contract should clearly outline services, pricing, payment terms, and cancellation policies. Reputable Northeast Ohio wedding vendors will provide this to protect both you and your wedding planning investment.
What is your backup plan in case of emergencies?
Ask every vendor what happens if something unexpected comes up. Most experienced Northeast Ohio wedding professionals have backup plans, whether that’s a second shooter, an associate team member, or a network of trusted vendors. Knowing there’s a plan in place gives you peace of mind throughout your wedding planning process.
Is gratuity or a service charge included in your package?
Talking about money can feel uncomfortable, but it’s important to understand exactly what you’re paying for. Ask if gratuity or service charges are included in your pricing or if they’re expected separately. Clear details from your Northeast Ohio wedding vendor help you budget accurately and avoid surprises.
Will your staff require a meal at the reception?
This is something many couples forget to plan for. Vendors who are with you most of the day—like photographers, videographers, and planners—often require a meal if they’re staying through your reception. Ask your Northeast Ohio wedding vendors ahead of time so you can include them in your final headcount and avoid last-minute surprises.
Catering & Bar Service are arguably one of the best parts of the wedding reception. Your guests will look forward to a delicious meal. You have to decide whether you’ll serve it buffet style, seated, family-style, or have food stations! If you’re having a seated meal, include the options on your RSVP card. Have a taste test and choose the dishes you love most. But be sure to have a vegetarian-friendly meal. It’s also prudent to take note of any food allergies and share them with your caterers.
Bar service is a little tricky. Typically, your venue or catering staff will provide a bartender and license. It is a faux pas to have an open bar. To save money, consider serving just beer and wine or having a signature cocktail. This list of local Catering & Bar Service vendors are experts in their field. They can help you design the perfect menu!
Cover Photo: Whitney Heard Photography